Cars can be complicated. There's no way for you to know exactly when and where there is a problem occurring. However, your nose can help sniff out the problem. Funny smells coming from your vehicle can indicate specific issues that may need attention ASAP. Here are six different smells that indicate issues in your car:

1. Maple Syrup

Most likely the culprit is antifreeze. Pay attention to when you smell this odor. It would be when the heat is turned on, the engine has been running for a while, or it could even occur once you've turned the car off. There could be antifreeze leaking in your car or from the core of the heater.

2. Rotten eggs or Sulfur

The smell of rotten eggs usually comes from the compound hydrogen sulfide. This compound is a byproduct from sulfur found in fuel. This smell could indicate engine or catalyst converter issues. It's possible that the converter or fuel system is not functioning properly. This needs to be checked out by a professional immediately.

3. Sweaty Locker Room

Yes. As strange as it sounds, many people face the problem of their car smelling like a musty gym locker room. This unpleasant odor most likely indicates that there is mold or mildew inside your air conditioning vents. It's important to dry out your vents by turning off the A/C and blowing air through the system. If this still doesn't solve the problem, have a professional take care of it for you.

4. Gasoline

Don't be alarmed if you just filled up your tank and smell the odor of gas. However, if you haven't just refueled and still smell it, you should be aware that there might be a problem. The smell of gas might indicate that there's a leak. This leak is most likely in the fuel injector line or the vehicle's gas tank. You need to get this examined as soon as you can because a gas leak poses a serious fire hazard.

5. Hot or Burning Oil

If you smell oil when your engine is hot, it might be an oil leak into the exhaust. Look for oil dripping on the ground underneath your car. It's important to note that it is possible for the leak to not be visible on the ground if it all drips onto the exhaust. Another indication could be thick smoke if the leak persists and gets bad enough.

6. Burning Carpet

The odor of burning carpet typically is a result of overheating brakes. Riding your brakes downhill may create this odor. However, if you're driving normally, your parking brake might be on. Check your parking brake and if it isn't engaged, it's possible that your brakes are not functioning as they should be. This poses a hazard and they are at risk of malfunctioning.

Don't wait until it's too late. Get your car serviced regularly and as soon as you think there might be an issue.

You don't have to be a car expert to be able to spot (or smell) when something is wrong with your vehicle. Always pay attention to your car. Funny smells and noises can indicate major problems under the hood. Train your nose to recognize odd smells and what they mean so that you can describe what's going on when your car gets checked out by a professional.

What's that sound? Does something smell funny? Cars can be very complicated and sometimes it's difficult to know if there's an actual problem. However, there are several warning signs that you can look out for to spot engine damage. These warning signs typically require immediate attention, but the sooner the problem is attended to, the more likely it is that it can be fixed.

If something seems off about your car, don't ignore it! Recognizing a problem early leads to a better chance of being able to fix it.

Check engine light or other dashboard lights illuminated

This may seem like a no brainer to some. However, there are many people who let their check engine light stay on and pay no mind to it. Out of all of the lights on the dashboard, the most important are Check Engine, Check Oil, and Low Oil Pressure. The Check Engine light is the most difficult and confusing warning due to the amount of causes behind it. It could indicate that something is wrong with your ignition or it could be something as small as not screwing your gas cap on tightly.

Noises

All cars make some strange noises on a daily basis. These noises could include slight ticking or clicking. However, if you notice any new or different sounds, it may mean that attention is required. The main sounds to look out for are squealing, grinding, thumping, or hissing. If you notice any of these sounds or any other unfamiliar noises, try to pinpoint the general area of where its occurring and having a professional check it out.

Funny smells

Unusual smells are a huge warning sign when it comes to engine damage. Be on the lookout for smells similar to burnt rubber, hot oil, gasoline, burning carpet, and rotten eggs. Never ignore odd smells coming from your car even if it is not among the ones listed. Have your car serviced immediately.

Engine problems could be pinpointed by the things you smell or see.

Steam or smoke

Some smoke can be normal. However, excessive amounts are an indicator that something is wrong under the hood. Be especially aware of dark smoke.

For more of the latest tips and tricks regarding cars and car care, check out HERO's blog.